{"id":135260,"date":"2025-04-21T15:21:44","date_gmt":"2025-04-21T19:21:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/?p=135260"},"modified":"2025-04-21T15:21:44","modified_gmt":"2025-04-21T19:21:44","slug":"jokic-mvp-criteria","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/basketball\/2025\/04\/21\/jokic-mvp-criteria\/","title":{"rendered":"Joki\u0107 Set to Fall Short of MVP Despite Historic Season: Did the Criteria Shift?"},"content":{"rendered":"

This NBA regular season finished with one of the most remarkable statistical accomplishments in league history: a center averaging a triple-double<\/a>. Nikola Joki\u0107<\/a>\u00a0has once again redefined what\u2019s possible as a big man.<\/p>\n

Joki\u0107\u2019s legacy will likely affect future generations in one of two ways: he\u2019ll be remembered as the trailblazer who reimagined what it means to play center. Joki\u0107 proved that a big man can orchestrate the game with the creativity and control of a point guard. Additionally, he\u2019ll be seen as a singular phenomenon, an unreplicable mix of strength, skill, and a basketball mind unlike any other.<\/p>\n

The latter seems more likely, even in an era stacked with amazing frontcourt talent, the Serbian is in a league of his own. His basketball IQ, versatility, and unselfishness allow him to affect the game in ways only a handful of players in NBA history ever could. He has shattered traditional beliefs\u2014such as the idea that centers shouldn’t initiate fast breaks\u2014by being the Nuggets’ best decision-maker in transition. Joki\u0107’s ability to dissect defenses and consistently generate high-quality shots for teammates has made Denver\u2019s offense elite for many years. What\u2019s more, the versatility of his game makes it easy for his teammates to flourish alongside him. However, despite this historic season, Joki\u0107 is unlikely to win MVP.<\/p>\n

Joki\u0107 Set to Fall Short of MVP Despite Historic Season: Did the Criteria Shift?<\/h2>\n

Due to the Nuggets’ struggles, Joki\u0107 had to carry a heavier offensive load this year. That added responsibility led to his most statistically impressive regular season, which ended with him averaging a triple-double. No one\u2014not even the most optimistic fans\u2014could have reasonably expected that. Especially since he also maintained his elite efficiency throughout the year, while fixing one of his few offensive weaknesses by becoming one of the league\u2019s most effective three-point shooters.<\/p>\n

Should this not be more than enough to earn the MVP? Not really, because context matters at least for the ones who don’t base their analysis solely on the boxscore. As great and historic as these offensive numbers are, it does not automatically make this Joki\u0107’s best regular season; many aspects beyond the boxscore explain why the team’s success has not matched that statistical achievement. It is up to the professionals covering this league to analyze the on-court tape in combination with the data provided through stats to give an accurate analysis.<\/p>\n

The Triple-Double Season Came at a Cost<\/h3>\n

The Serbian superstars’ historical triple-double came at a cost. The price for these incredible numbers led to one of his worst defensive seasons in recent years, his lethargic effort on that end led to a disappointing team defense.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, probable MVP winner<\/a> Shai Gilgeous-Alexander<\/a> hasn\u2019t matched Joki\u0107\u2019s offensive impact, but he\u2019s played a key role on the league\u2019s best defenses. His consistent effort on that end helped the Thunder avoid major fluctuations in performance and secure the top seed in the Western Conference with ease. That said, media members like Chris Mannix have overstated SGA\u2019s defensive impact (minute 3:25).<\/p>\n